About the park.
In 1974, Russell and Ella McCarthy generously donated the original 180 acres for this park as a special park for the youth of Dane County. Dane County has purchased 2 additional 40-acre parcels. Then in 2011, they purchased an additional 25 acres along Hwy N for a total of 285. The park currently provides a parking area, hiking, and picnicking. Planning has been completed, and development will occur through the efforts of the Friends of McCarthy Park and Dane County. It will serve as a combined recreational and conservation park for young people, including group camping, prairie restoration, bike trails, and equestrian trails. The park's purpose will be to involve young people in conservation and outdoor activities.
What we do.
The Friends of McCarthy Youth & Conservation County Park support the park in many ways. We organize youth service days and recreation activities, as well as assist in the planning efforts and restoration of the land. We love McCarthy Park and what it stands for: educating our youth about nature.